Episode 493 - Chasing Trains, Running Marathons & Changing Lives — with Jess Peil

In this episode, I chat with the vibrant and inspiring Jess Peil — and trust me, you’re going to fall in love with her story. From childhood runs in the Saudi Arabian desert, to chasing Puffing Billy in Melbourne, and now taking on seven marathons in seven states for Bravehearts, Jess brings passion, purpose, and a whole lot of heart to her running.

We cover:
🏃‍♀️ How a mile-long kids race in the desert sparked her early love of running
🚂 The amazing family story behind Melbourne’s Great Train Race (her dad helped start it!)
🎗 How fundraising became her powerful “why” — raising over $500K for Bravehearts
🧠 The importance of movement for both mental and physical health
🏔 Her adventures doing multi-day ultras like Southern Lakes Ultra in New Zealand
🫶 And how running communities like Running for Resilience are changing lives and saving lives in Canberra

Jess reminds us all that you don’t have to be fast to make a massive impact — you just need heart, consistency, and a great cause to run for. 💛

🎧 Tune in for laughs, heartwarming stories, and lots of inspiration to lace up your shoes — whether you’re chasing a PB or just chasing joy.

 

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Jess’s Bravehearts link (30th June to 6th July) - https://fundraise.bravehearts.org.au/fundraisers/jesspeil/777national2025
Running For Resilience - https://www.runningforresilience.com/

A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (FitMIND FitBODY) or send me an email - Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co 

 

💛 Looking for more running motivation?

Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!

 

https://fitmindfitbody.co/podcast/